He stands for everything we both believe in.
(Super) hard work. STRONG leadership. Sacrifice. #Merica.
My Flight Commander in Field Training (as Cadets...in college) called us Heroes. For nothing, basically. For doing a certain amount of push-ups? Who the hell cares. I guess it meant something at the time. To push yourself the hardest physically. But in the real world, "Hero" means so much more.
Sometimes it sort of kills me that I'm not still doing what he is doing.
But if I was, I wouldn't see him (at least) 6 out of every 18 months. Almost guaranteed.
He is my best friend and I love him so much. So it's hard to imagine that as the MINIMUM.
And that *may not* seem like a lot. If not, well, try it. Then get back to me.
When I was in Kandahar, we got rocketed all day every day. I really didn't think anything of it at the time but it wasn't the best place to be. Dave recognized that fact more than I did when I was there. I still think it was *nothing* compared to what the true heroes go through outside the wire. But it was real, and it would have been *the norm* for us if I would have stayed in the Air Force any longer. Oh, to be so naive again.
I've digressed.
I love this man with every little fiber of my being. And he is simply amazing at what he does. As a pilot and as a leader.
I get mad when he works himself too hard. But it's also what I love about him. He cares about doing what is right; he cares about the people. He cares about making the people do what is right, about making them stronger and better leaders.
I would love to complain about all of the sacrifices I'M making as a military spouse. But I also don't want to do that at all. AT ALL. Because I'm with him.
But burning people and families out...it's real. It's what is happening to our military of courageous and dedicated men and women. It's extremely sad. I've watched a man who came flying out of the womb to defend his country burn. out. In a few short years. I see how so very fast he has aged. And he keeps going.
This is not a political post...it's just meant to highlight the work ethic, leadership and contribution of just one man. Surely he isn't the only one; he is just an example.
I love you, Dave, and I am so very proud of you. More than blog words can ever express.
The Air Force will be so fortunate to soon have you as an instructor, leading other pilots to be the best of the best. See you soon, Fairchild AFB.
❤️
